Those are the closing words on the last song of Pink Floyds all time gr8 album(for the records-it was on charts for 14 years!)Dark side of the Moon. Maybe it is not really aplicable to something as mundane(?) as Sun certification in Java programming. But then maybe it is!
:)
The Upshot
Most people(mark my words!-most people) in India do a certification to better their chances of landing a better job. Some do for professional satisfaction. I took the exam because I had to!(the coupon was expiring!).well, as I alwez maintain.to each his own.
:)
The Exam
This one is one of the most exhaustive(and some time back the most hyped!) exam I have encountered. The exam probes the dark nooks and corners of your grasp of the Java Programming Language. No chance of you making it by luck.
The syllabi of the exam and the points the exam looks for in the programmer are clearly and unambiguously stated. The time available is tight but manageable. Dont attempt it if you havent prepared well for it or have a weak heart!
The Fallout
Clearing the exam in itself doesnot and cannot make you a good programmer. In fact there are quite a few things in the test which I doubt a programmer will ever face inreal time. And if you are looking at the exam just for improving your job chances forget it!. Gone are the days when people could impress the employer with a few certifications and a lot of bull!.
:)
Do it only if you want to prove to yourself your capabilities! No one in the real world looks at these any more.
My Take
.the Sun is(really)eclipsed by the moon!
:)